Alim McNeill is 'physically ready' to return, but MNF status is still unclear
The long wait for defensive tackle Alim McNeill's return may finally be coming to an end. After going from "50/50" odds to "51/49" odds, head coach Dan Campbell appeared more confident than ever that McNeill's return was imminent.
Speaking with the media on Tuesday, Campbell provided an update with where McNeill is at:
I mean, he looked good last week. He's - the last two weeks, he's looked good. He's getting more comfortable, legs are under him, he's physically ready, and so I think we're all hopeful.
When asked if McNeill could return Sunday, Campbell offered his most optimistic and lighthearted tone yet, saying, "I'd love to believe so. I mean, I would - 58, 52, 48, 58 - I don't know." Campbell's joke referencing his previous odds to McNeill's return drew laughter from himself and the media, but he followed that with a more direct answer, saying, "We're getting closer. I'm starting to feel pretty good."
Coach Campbell on Alim McNeill's progress pic.twitter.com/jVUCBbBFEP
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) October 14, 2025
McNeill's return would be a massive boost for the Lions' struggling defense
There's a reason why Campbell and Lions fans have been so invested in McNeill's recovery. Not just because of how remarkable it is that he's returning so soon after the ACL injury he suffered last December, but because of how pivotal he would be for a struggling defense.
At the time of his injury, McNeill was considered among the best DTs in the league and strongly in the mix for an All-Pro selection. His pass-rushing grade of 93.9 led all defensive players, regardless of position, in 2024, according to Pro Football Focus. PFF also listed McNeill as having a pass-rushing win percentage of 62.50% and a pressure rate of 40% -- both well above elite edge rushers like Myles Garrett and Micah Parsons.
Pass rushing may not be as big an issue as Lions fans had thought it would be entering the season, given how elite the duo of Aidan Hutchinson and Al-Quadin Muhammad has been, but plugging in a strong pass-rushing interior defender like McNeill will assuredly provide those two more openings to get to the quarterback.
The Lions' defense will face a major test going up against a strong offensive line that protects MVP candidate Baker Mayfield. Mayfield has shown himself to be difficult to bring down, and his arm will pose enough issues for a depleted Lions' secondary. If McNeill returns on Monday, that would be a major boost for the Lions' defense and could go a long way toward limiting what Mayfield can do. Lions need all the help they can get to head into the bye week with a win.
Dre Greenlaw Declares: 'Facing Me, You’re Confronting A Monster On The Field!'
Dre Greenlaw, the standout linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers, is ready to return to the field with a fire in his eyes and a chip on his shoulder. After a lengthy injury recovery, Greenlaw has made it clear that he's not just coming back to play — he's coming back to dominate. In a powerful statement that has resonated throughout the 49ers' locker room, Greenlaw said, “Every time I step on the field, I’m not just fighting for myself, I’m fighting for my team. It’s time for me to come back and prove that I’m an important part of this change. If you think you can get past me, you’re going to face a monster on the field.”
Greenlaw’s words are not just an expression of confidence; they reflect the mentality of one of the most feared linebackers in the NFL. He’s known for his hard-hitting style, his ability to disrupt plays, and his leadership on defense. Since joining the 49ers, Greenlaw has been a force to be reckoned with, earning the respect of teammates and opponents alike.
His return to the field is a significant moment for the 49ers as they continue their push for dominance in the NFC. Greenlaw’s presence in the middle of the defense brings an edge that the team has sorely missed during his time on the sidelines. His impact goes beyond just tackles and sacks; it’s his ability to read plays, disrupt quarterbacks, and elevate the level of play for everyone around him.
"I’ve been through a lot, and I know what it takes to come back from adversity. It’s not just about physical strength; it’s about mental toughness. I’m more focused than ever, and I’m ready to get back out there and show everyone why they should fear stepping up against me," Greenlaw continued.
For the 49ers, having Greenlaw back is more than just a return from injury; it’s a game-changer. His leadership, intensity, and knack for making big plays will help bolster a defense that has already been among the league’s best. With players like Greenlaw setting the tone, the 49ers are ready to push further in the postseason.
As Greenlaw steps back onto the field, his eyes are set on one thing: victory. With his fierce determination and relentless drive, he’s more than ready to face any challenge that comes his way. Opponents beware — when Dre Greenlaw is on the field, you’re not just facing a player; you’re facing a monster.
